Humpback
Whale Range Distribution

Chart 4 -- Humpback Whale Range Distribution.

Humpback
whales are highly acoustic animals known for their "songs". Their
songs are long and complex intertwining melodies, which can sometimes
last up to twenty minutes long. These songs are repeated continuously
for hours. The Humpbacks in the North American Pacific populations
all sing the same song which progressively changes over the years.
The bulk of evidence thus far, points to the singing whales being
males; it is thought that these songs are a function of mating
behavior. Any device that has the potential to effect, impede,
or alter this behavior should be examined critically. Humpback
whales within the MBNMS range throughout the Sanctuary boundaries
from May through October. The area depicted in red diagonals is
the major adult concentration for feeding and migration from May
through October, as well as the recreational viewing area from
June through September. The area in blue dots depicts the major
adult area for feeding and migration from May through October.